Established in the 1900s, the historic city of Virginia Highlands was originally founded as a streetcar suburb. Its name derives from the intersection of Virginia Avenue and North Highland Avenue, which was the central and busiest part of the city.

Now, its convenient five minute commute to downtown mixed with its famous bungalows and historic homes from the 1910s to 1930s attract newcomers daily. In fact, more than 8,000 people call Virginia Highlands home. Almost 100 homes for sale are listed on Zillow that range in price from $70,000 to $2 million. Additionally, rental homes on Trulia are priced from $950 to $3,750 per month.

Virginia Highlands offers outstanding schools for children of all ages. Area schools include The Children’s Center of All Saints, YWCA Atlanta, Morningside Elementary, Mary Lin Elementary, Springdale Park Elementary, Inman Middle, Henry W. Grady High and The Paideia School.

Known as Atlanta’s most popular neighborhood for shopping, eating and nightlife, both locals and tourists can enjoy coffee at the sidewalk cafes, tasty cuisine at well-known restaurants and drinks at the eclectic night spots.

Be sure to check out these attractions:

Shopping and Dining

  • Ten Thousand Villages. A gift giver’s paradise. Conveniently located right in the Highlands, this fair trade organization works with artisan groups in places like Africa, Asia and Latin America to bring unique handmade items to you.
  • Murphy’s. Located in the middle of Virginia Highlands and a local favorite, Murphy’s has been serving brunch, lunch and dinner for more than 30 years. Menu items include shrimp and grits, beer braised mussels, lump crab cake, eggs Santa Fe and crab cake benedict.
  • Paris on Ponce. Known as Atlanta’s favorite bohemian destination and located on a hill overlooking Ponce de Leon Avenue, this orange building showcases art, antiques, furnishings, ateliers, boutiques and other unique items for purchase.
  • Half Moon Outfitters. Providing Atlanta with adventure and travel gear since 1993, Half Moon Outfitters carries top brand names including The North Face, Patagonia, Chaco, Mountain Hardwear and more.
  • Alon’s Bakery and Market. Sitting in the northern end of Virginia Highlands, this bakery is the perfect neighborhood coffee shop. Known for its great atmosphere, breads, pastries and lunch menu, Alon’s Bakery is a must go. Menu Items include, egg grilled paninis, chocolate mousse slice, turkey bacon, French toast and macaroons.

Entertainment and Recreation

  • Atlanta Streets Alive. Returning October 6, Atlanta Streets Alive will take place in Virginia Highlands at Virginia Avenue, Boulevard and Monroe Drive. Attend to take back the streets by foot, bike, roller skates, skateboards or any other human-powered means of transportation. Just no gasoline-engines allowed. The even aims to transform Atlanta streets into safe place for fun, fitness and transportation.
  • Piedmont Park. Historically known as a gentlemen’s driving club and horse racing area, this park now offers tennis courts, a beautiful lake and a golf course. A Green Market is also held every Saturday. Park hours are from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
  • John Howell Memorial Park. This charming park is the perfect place to walk your dog, lie in the sun, play on the playground and just relax. Park benches are located throughout, and the trees and grass are plentiful.
  • Blind Willie’s. Established in 1986 and famous for its blues, Blind Willie’s offers live local blues every day of the week. If you’re looking for a place with a laid back crowd, drinks and great music, this is definitely a scene for you.

Historical Attractions

  • Fire Station #19. Located at 1063 N. Highland Ave., Fire Station #19 is Atlanta’s oldest operating fire station. Built in 1924 in the bungalow style prevalent in Virginia Highlands, the station is a neighborhood landmark. Currently, the station needs donations for renovations.
  • Inman Middle School. Named for Samuel M. Inman, an Atlanta civic leader who was passionate about education and philanthropy, Inman Middle School was built as an elementary school in 1924. Samuel Inman, who lived from 1843 to 1915, donation much of his money to education. His legacy lives on at Inman Middle School, a top-ranked school in Georgia.
  • Adair Mansion. Originally named Wood Cliff, the mansion at 964 Rupley Drive was completed in 1895 for Green Buron Adair. A wholesale commission and fertilizer tycoon, Adair bought the land when it was country and only accessible by the Nine-Mile Circle streetcar line. The Mediterranean-style house is now divided into upscale apartments.

Come experience Virginia Highland’s great shopping, fine cuisine and unique culture.

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